The colours show much better on the before picture though. Basically I underestimated the thickness of the fabric and went for a drawstring at the waist. The peplum-thingy was also a questionable decision. The only thing I regret is the lack of pockets in the new version, I could stuff things inside when the waist was held together. I might add a pocket at some point and maybe a collar. \
Cool design idea! I think the original approach(? what's shown in before photo) might be worth another try either with a different material or with what you learned from the first try, particularly integrating a drawstring from the start. I think the drawstring adds something nice to the design, personally.
Regardless, the end result looks sharp!
I agree, I really liked the drawstring. maybe I'll construct it the same way, but use thinner material for the inside of the channel and the string itself. I don't know about the peplum thingy though. I think it needs somethig under the drawstring still. maybe a straight panel ?
Not sure about the resulting peplum either. I sort of feel like with a cleaner drawstring design it may be okay as-is, but better with a hem like you've done along the neck and chest to accent and give the peplum a complete, consistent look.
Also if you mean directly beneath/behind the drawstring, rather than below it, then yeah maybe something like you mention to give it some more definition wouldn't hurt.
Not sure if my first message was clear, there's two problems going on here:
Comfort wise, the general belt area is too thick, so I would change the construction.
Look wise, I don't think the bottom would look good (on me(?)) if it were to stop with a drawstring and I'm still brainstorming ideas for that. It was all finished with a really cute red bias tape with little daisies though, I wouldn't change that.
To be honest, I don't know a lot about this craft so I don't think it's a clarity problem on your part, so much as ignorance on mine.
That said, on both points I agree, and was trying to say I think having some more fabric past the drawstring would look good, but in what way, I don't know what to suggest either.